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State Health Commissioner Applauds Courage, Determination of 800,000 New Yorkers Living with Cancer

Sunday is National Cancer Survivors Day

Albany, N.Y. (June 3, 2011) –In recognition of National Cancer Survivors Day on Sunday, June 5, New York State Health Commissioner Nirav R. Shah, M.D., M.P.H., applauded the courage and determination of nearly 800,000 New Yorkers who are living with a diagnosis of cancer and thanked their health care providers, family members and others who assist them.

"Today, as a result of improved screening, early detection and treatment, many more people are surviving cancer," said Commissioner Shah. "On National Cancer Survivors Day, we recognize the challenges bravely faced by cancer survivors and their families and celebrate the ability of cancer survivors to live productive lives beyond their cancer diagnosis and treatment."

Dr. Shah noted that New Yorkers face many challenges during the diagnosis, treatment and post-treatment phases of cancer. To assist those in need, the New York State Health Department (DOH) supports free breast, cervical and colorectal screening services for uninsured and underinsured individuals and funds supportive and legal services for individuals with cancer and their families.

In addition, the Medicaid Cancer Treatment Program provides treatment services to uninsured eligible residents who have been diagnosed with breast, cervical, colorectal or prostate cancer. More information on the Medicaid Cancer Treatment Program is available at: http://www.health.ny.gov/nysdoh/bcctp/bcctp.htm.

For information about DOH's free breast, cervical and colorectal cancer screening and diagnostic services, as well as assistance with the Medicaid Cancer Treatment Program for eligible New Yorkers, visit:www.health.ny.gov/diseases/cancer/services/or call (518) 474-1222.

Information about local activities planned in connection with National Cancer Survivors Day is available at the National Cancer Survivors Day Foundation website at www.ncsdf.org.